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First Response - Early Result Pregnancy Test

First Response - Early Result Pregnancy Test

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  • ✔️ Detects pregnancy up to 6 days before missed period
  • ✔️ Highly sensitive hCG detection threshold of ~6.3 mIU/mL
  • ✔️ Delivers a clear result in just 3 minutes
  • ✔️ Suitable for women of reproductive age trying to conceive
  • ✔️ Single-use test with easy-to-read line result format

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What Is an Early Pregnancy Test and How Does It Help?

 

Waiting to find out whether you are pregnant can feel like the longest few days of your life. The early pregnancy test from First Response — the Early Result — is designed to give you an answer sooner than most standard tests. It can detect the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) in your urine up to six days before your missed period, which means you do not have to sit with uncertainty for as long. At just £4.49, it is an accessible, straightforward option for anyone who wants clarity as early as possible. If you are also exploring other aspects of your reproductive health, our women's health range covers a broad selection of products to support you at every stage.

Pregnancy tests work by detecting hCG, a hormone your body starts producing shortly after a fertilised egg implants in the lining of the womb. Levels of hCG roughly double every 48 to 72 hours in early pregnancy, which is why testing too early can sometimes produce a negative result even when you are pregnant. First Response Early Result is one of the most sensitive over-the-counter tests available in the UK, with a detection threshold of around 6.3 mIU/mL of hCG.

 

How Does the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test Work?

 

The test uses a lateral flow immunoassay — a well-established diagnostic method that works by binding hCG molecules in your urine to antibodies on the test strip. Here is what happens step by step:

  • You hold the absorbent tip in your urine stream (or dip it into a collected sample) for the specified time.
  • Urine travels along the test strip by capillary action.
  • If hCG is present, it binds to labelled antibodies and forms a visible coloured line in the result window.
  • A control line always appears to confirm the test has worked correctly.
  • Two lines — even a faint second line — indicate a positive result.

The result is ready to read within three minutes. It is worth noting that the intensity of the second line does not indicate how far along a pregnancy is — any visible line is a positive.

 

Who Should Use the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

 

This test is suitable for a wide range of people. Whether you are actively trying to conceive, have had unprotected sex, or have simply noticed changes in how you feel, it gives you a reliable starting point. It is particularly useful if you:

  • Want to test before your period is due — up to six days early.
  • Have irregular cycles and are unsure when to expect your period.
  • Have recently stopped hormonal contraception and are monitoring your cycle.
  • Have experienced early pregnancy symptoms such as breast tenderness, nausea, or fatigue.

It is not suitable for use as a contraceptive or as a substitute for medical confirmation of pregnancy. If you receive a positive result, contact your GP or midwife to arrange antenatal care. The NHS recommends booking your first appointment as soon as possible after a positive test.

 

How Does First Response Compare to Other Pregnancy Tests?

 

Feature First Response Early Result Standard Pharmacy Test
Earliest testing day Up to 6 days before missed period From day of missed period
hCG detection threshold ~6.3 mIU/mL ~20–25 mIU/mL
Result format Line-based (analogue) Line-based or digital
Result time 3 minutes 3–5 minutes

 

How Should You Store the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

 

Store the test below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze it. Keep it in its original sealed packaging until you are ready to use it, and always check the expiry date printed on the box before testing. An expired test may not give an accurate result. If you are unsure whether your test is still valid, it is safer to use a new one.

Using an early pregnancy test correctly — including storing it properly — is essential for getting a reliable result. If you have any questions about how to use this product, speak to one of our pharmacists at Cured Pharmacy. You can also browse our vitamins and supplements range for folic acid and other nutrients recommended during early pregnancy planning.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test specifications
Treatment category In vitro diagnostic / Pregnancy detection
Mechanism of action Lateral flow immunoassay detecting urinary hCG
Effective Up to 6 days before missed period
Suitable for Women of reproductive age
Active ingredient hCG-specific monoclonal antibodies (diagnostic reagent)
Pack sizes 1 test per pack
UK classification General Sale / CE-marked IVD device
Preparation Lateral flow test strip with absorbent tip
Route of administration Urine (in vitro diagnostic — not ingested)

Specifications of First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test

 

What Is the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test and What Is It Used For?

 

The First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test is an over-the-counter in vitro diagnostic device used to detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) in urine. hCG is produced by the developing placenta after a fertilised egg implants in the womb. The test is used to confirm or rule out pregnancy at home, and it can be used up to six days before your expected missed period. It is not a treatment or medication — it is a single-use diagnostic tool that gives you a result in three minutes.

A positive result means hCG was detected in your urine at or above the test's sensitivity threshold. A negative result means hCG was not detected at the time of testing, though this does not completely rule out pregnancy if you tested very early. The NHS advises that if you get a negative result but your period does not arrive, you should test again after a few days.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

 

This test is safe to use for most women of reproductive age. However, there are some important points to be aware of before you test:

  • Do not use the test after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
  • Do not use if the foil pouch is damaged or already opened.
  • Fertility treatments containing hCG (such as Pregnyl or Ovitrelle) can cause a false positive result — speak to your fertility clinic about when to test.
  • Recent pregnancy loss (miscarriage or termination) may mean residual hCG is still present in your urine, which could produce a misleading positive result.
  • An ectopic pregnancy can also produce a positive result — if you have a positive test alongside severe one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder tip pain, or vaginal bleeding, seek urgent medical attention.
  • Certain rare medical conditions that cause elevated hCG (such as gestational trophoblastic disease) may produce a positive result in the absence of a normal pregnancy.

Drug interactions:

  • hCG-containing fertility injections can interfere with results.
  • Standard medications including the contraceptive pill, antibiotics, and pain relief do not affect the result.
  • Alcohol and food do not interfere with the test.

 

How Should You Use the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

 

Always read the full instructions inside the pack before testing. Using the test correctly gives you the most reliable result. Follow these steps:

  1. Remove the test stick from its foil wrapper and take off the cap to expose the absorbent tip.
  2. Hold the stick with the absorbent tip pointing downward.
  3. Either hold the tip in your urine stream for 5 seconds, or dip the tip into a collected urine sample for 5 seconds.
  4. Replace the cap and lay the test flat on a clean, dry surface.
  5. Wait 3 minutes before reading the result.
  6. Read the result within 10 minutes — do not interpret results after this window.
Indication Age Group When to Test Frequency
Suspected pregnancy Women of reproductive age Up to 6 days before missed period, or from day of missed period Once; repeat if negative and period does not arrive
Confirming a previous positive Women of reproductive age 2–3 days after first positive Once

For the most accurate result, use your first morning urine. If you are testing before your missed period, morning urine contains the highest concentration of hCG. You can find additional support and products for early pregnancy planning in our baby and toddler section.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

 

Because this is a diagnostic device rather than a medicine, it does not cause pharmacological side effects. You are not ingesting or applying any substance to your body. However, there are some non-physical considerations worth being aware of:

Common considerations:

  • Emotional distress following an unexpected positive or negative result.
  • Anxiety while waiting for the result to appear.
  • Confusion when interpreting a faint second line.

Less common considerations:

  • Skin irritation if urine contacts broken skin — this is not caused by the test itself.
  • Misleading results due to user error (e.g. reading after the 10-minute window, insufficient urine on the tip).

If you receive a positive result and are unsure what to do next, the NHS has clear guidance on next steps after a positive pregnancy test. If you receive a negative result but still feel pregnant, retest after 48–72 hours or speak to your GP.

 

How Should You Store the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

 

  • Store at room temperature, below 30°C.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze.
  • Keep in the original sealed foil pouch until ready to use.
  • Keep out of reach of children.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the box.
  • Dispose of used tests in household waste — they are not classified as clinical waste for home users.

If you have concerns about your reproductive health more broadly, our condoms and sexual health collection includes a range of products to support informed choices at every stage.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test online in the UK?

You can buy the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test from Cured Pharmacy online for just £4.49 with fast UK delivery. It is also widely available from high street pharmacies and supermarkets. Ordering online is convenient if you prefer privacy and discretion.

How does the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test work in the body?

The test detects human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), a hormone produced by the placenta after a fertilised egg implants in the womb lining. When hCG in your urine binds to antibodies on the test strip, a visible coloured line appears in the result window. The test does not interact with your body — it simply reads what is already present in your urine.

How early can you take the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

First Response Early Result can be used up to six days before your expected missed period. Testing this early is possible because the test has a very low hCG detection threshold of approximately 6.3 mIU/mL. However, the closer you test to your missed period, the more reliable the result will be.

How do I use the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test step by step?

Using the test correctly takes just a few minutes. Follow these steps for the most accurate result:

  1. Remove the test from its foil pouch and take off the cap.
  2. Hold the absorbent tip in your urine stream for 5 seconds, or dip it into a collected sample.
  3. Replace the cap and lay the test flat for 3 minutes.
  4. Read the result within 10 minutes — do not read after this time.

Two lines — even a faint one — means a positive result. One line means negative.

What is the best time of day to take an early pregnancy test?

First morning urine is the best time to test because hCG concentrations are highest after a night without drinking fluids. If you test later in the day, drinking large amounts of liquid beforehand can dilute your urine and reduce the test's ability to detect hCG. This is especially important if you are testing before your missed period.

Can I get a false negative result with the First Response Early Result test?

Yes, a false negative is possible — most commonly when you test too early before hCG levels have risen high enough to detect. Diluted urine from drinking too many fluids before testing can also reduce sensitivity. If your period does not arrive, the NHS recommends retesting after a few days or speaking to your GP.

Can a false positive result occur with this pregnancy test?

False positives are rare but can occur in certain circumstances. Fertility injections containing hCG (such as Pregnyl) can trigger a positive result, as can recent pregnancy loss where hCG levels have not yet returned to zero. Very rarely, certain medical conditions that elevate hCG can also cause a false positive — if you are concerned, speak to your GP.

What does a faint line on a First Response pregnancy test mean?

Any visible second line — no matter how faint — is considered a positive result, because it indicates that hCG was detected in your urine. The intensity of the line does not reflect how far along a pregnancy is or how high your hCG levels are. If you are unsure, repeat the test in 48 hours or speak to your GP for a blood test to confirm.

Who is the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test suitable for?

The test is suitable for any woman of reproductive age who wants to check for pregnancy at home. It is particularly useful for those trying to conceive, those who have had unprotected sex, or those experiencing early pregnancy symptoms such as nausea or breast tenderness. It is not suitable for use as a contraceptive method or as a replacement for medical confirmation of pregnancy.

What should I do after getting a positive result on a First Response test?

If you receive a positive result, contact your GP or midwife as soon as possible to arrange your first antenatal appointment. The NHS recommends booking this before 10 weeks of pregnancy. You may also want to start taking folic acid (400 micrograms daily) immediately, as this supports healthy neural tube development in early pregnancy — you can find folic acid in our vitamins and supplements range.

What should I do if I get a negative result but still think I might be pregnant?

A negative result does not completely rule out pregnancy, especially if you tested before your missed period. Wait 48 to 72 hours and test again using first morning urine. If your period still does not arrive and you continue to have symptoms, speak to your GP who can arrange a blood test to measure hCG levels more precisely.

What are the alternatives to the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

Alternatives include the Clearblue Early Detection Pregnancy Test, which also offers early testing capability, and various own-brand pharmacy tests that are typically used from the day of a missed period. Digital tests display a written "Pregnant" or "Not Pregnant" message rather than lines, which some people find easier to interpret. Your GP can also arrange a blood test for a more sensitive measure of hCG.

Does the contraceptive pill or other medication affect the pregnancy test result?

Standard medications — including the combined pill, progestogen-only pill, antibiotics, and over-the-counter pain relief — do not interfere with the First Response Early Result test. The only medications known to affect results are those containing hCG, such as certain fertility injections. If you are undergoing fertility treatment, speak to your clinic about the right time to test.

How long can you use a pregnancy test for — is there an expiry date?

Yes, every pregnancy test has an expiry date printed on the outer packaging and on the foil pouch. Using an expired test can produce unreliable results because the antibody reagents on the strip may have degraded. Always check the expiry date before testing and replace the test if it has passed. Store unused tests below 30°C in a dry place to preserve their accuracy.

What are the latest findings on the accuracy of early pregnancy tests?

Research published in clinical literature has shown that home pregnancy tests vary considerably in their real-world sensitivity when used before a missed period. First Response Early Result consistently performs among the most sensitive tests in independent evaluations, with a detection threshold of approximately 6.3 mIU/mL. For the most reliable result at any stage, testing from the day of your missed period remains the NHS-recommended approach. You can also explore our women's health collection for further support products.

How Should You Use the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

Using the test correctly is straightforward, but following each step carefully gives you the most reliable result. Always read the full instruction leaflet inside the pack before you begin, and make sure you have not opened the foil pouch until you are ready to test.

Here is a step-by-step guide to using the test:

What Is the Correct Dose of the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

This is a single-use diagnostic device, not a medicine, so there is no "dose" in the traditional sense. Each test is designed for one use only. If you need to retest — for example, after a negative result when your period has not arrived — use a new test from a fresh pack.

When Is the Best Time to Use the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

The best time to test is with your first morning urine, as this contains the highest concentration of hCG after several hours without drinking fluids. If you test later in the day, avoid drinking large amounts of liquid beforehand, as this can dilute your urine and reduce the test's sensitivity. You can test up to six days before your expected missed period, though accuracy increases the closer you are to that date.

If you test early and get a negative result, do not assume you are not pregnant. hCG levels may simply not be high enough yet. Retest after your missed period if it does not arrive on time.

How Long Can You Use the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test For?

Each test is for single use only and should be used before the expiry date printed on the outer packaging. Do not use a test that has been stored incorrectly — for example, one that has been exposed to extreme heat, moisture, or direct sunlight — as this can affect the accuracy of the result. Once you have used a test, dispose of it in your household waste.

If you are monitoring your cycle over several months while trying to conceive, you will need a new test each time you wish to check. There is no limit to how many times you can test across different cycles, but each individual test is strictly single use.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Considerations When Using the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test?

Because this is an in vitro diagnostic device rather than a medicine, it does not cause pharmacological side effects. You are not ingesting, inhaling, or applying any active substance to your body. That said, there are some practical and emotional considerations that are commonly reported by people who use home pregnancy tests.

  • Emotional distress or anxiety while waiting for the result to appear.
  • Confusion when interpreting a faint second line in the result window.
  • Disappointment or upset following an unexpected negative or positive result.
  • Uncertainty about whether the test has been used correctly.

What Are the Less Common Issues Associated With Home Pregnancy Testing?

Less commonly, people experience practical difficulties that can affect the reliability of their result. These are not side effects in the medical sense, but they are worth being aware of.

  • Misleading results due to insufficient urine on the absorbent tip.
  • Invalid results caused by reading the test after the 10-minute window.
  • Skin irritation if urine contacts broken or sensitive skin — this is not caused by the test reagents.
  • Difficulty reading the result in poor lighting conditions.

What Are the Serious Concerns to Be Aware of With Pregnancy Test Results?

While the test itself carries no serious physical risks, certain results require prompt medical attention. A positive result alongside severe one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder tip pain, or vaginal bleeding could indicate an ectopic pregnancy — a medical emergency. Do not wait; seek urgent care immediately if you experience these symptoms alongside a positive test result.

A positive result following recent pregnancy loss (miscarriage or termination) may reflect residual hCG rather than a new pregnancy. Similarly, fertility treatments containing hCG can cause a false positive. If you are in any doubt about what your result means, speak to your GP without delay.

What Should You Do If You Experience Distress After Using the First Response Test?

An unexpected result — whether positive or negative — can be emotionally difficult. If you are struggling to process the outcome, speak to your GP, a midwife, or a trusted healthcare professional. Organisations such as the Miscarriage Association and Tommy's offer support for those dealing with pregnancy-related concerns. You do not have to manage this alone.

If you are unsure whether your result is accurate, the most important step is to retest with a new test after 48 to 72 hours, or ask your GP to arrange a blood test to measure hCG levels directly.

Can the First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test Interact With Other Medicines?

Standard medications do not interfere with this test. The contraceptive pill, antibiotics, antihistamines, and over-the-counter pain relief have no effect on the result. The only known interference comes from medications that contain hCG itself — specifically certain fertility injections such as Pregnyl (choriogonadotropin alfa). If you are undergoing fertility treatment, speak to your clinic about the appropriate time to test to avoid a misleading result.

Alcohol, food, and herbal supplements do not affect the accuracy of the test.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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